Firms prepare bids for PIF’s Empty Quarter project

31 July 2025

Contractors are preparing to submit bids by 3 August for infrastructure works at the upcoming Shaybah Resort project in Saudi Arabia’s Empty Quarter.

The project is located near Saudi Aramco’s oil facilities in Shaybah and is being developed by Desert Resort Development Company, a firm backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The contract scope includes all infrastructure works, including 35 kilometres of roads, power, water and other utilities; eight staff accommodation buildings; enabling works for the main resort; and other associated works.

The Shaybah Resort will comprise 51 flower-shaped villas offering an exclusive desert experience focused on stargazing and seclusion.

US-based engineering firm Jacobs is the project's lead design consultant, while JLL serves as the project management consultant.

UAE-based X Architects is the project architect.

The project aligns with Riyadh’s broader strategy to boost leisure tourism in the kingdom.

According to UK-based analytics firm GlobalData, leisure tourism in Saudi Arabia has experienced significant growth in recent years.

Domestic leisure tourism trips rose to 33.76 million in 2023, up from 16.74 million in 2018.

International tourist arrivals for recreational purposes increased by 600% between 2018 and 2023.

https://image.digitalinsightresearch.in/uploads/NewsArticle/14374337/main.png
Yasir Iqbal
Related Articles